Organizer: ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute

Type/Location: Hybrid / Singapore

Description:

Selangor and Penang are two of Malaysia’s most economically dynamic and innovative states. Surrounding Kuala Lumpur, Selangor has crucial automotive, logistics, finance and digital economy sectors, and aspires to develop aerospace industries. Further north, Penang houses electrical and electronics firms, medical device manufacturers, as well as medical tourism and global business services. Both states are also the base for semiconductor producers and derivative ecosystems.

Beyond their economic importance, these two states are key linchpins of Anwar Ibrahim’s Pakatan Harapan coalition, which has governed them since 2008. Selangor and Penang have experienced being in opposition and in government at the national level. These varying political fortunes have both enabled and constrained progress on key policies and investments.

In a reflection of today’s more fluid political landscape, the Pakatan Harapan administrations in Selangor and Penang now enjoy the support of Barisan Nasional. This has led to new experiences for politicians in both coalitions in planning campaign strategies, deciding policy priorities, and governing the two states.

This seminar will draw on the extensive experience of two state government leaders to understand how Malaysia’s multi-leveled governance structure enables and constrains economic governance and policy innovation.

About the Speakers:

YB Tuan Dr. Mohammad Fahmi Bin Ngah, State Assemblyman for Seri Setia since 2013, is a State Executive Councillor in the Selangor State Government for Islamic Affairs, Halal Industry, Cultural Innovation, and Science, Technology & Innovation.

YB Encik Zairil Khir Johari, State Assemblyman for Tanjong Bunga (Penang) since 2018, is the State Executive Councillor in the Penang State Government for Infrastructure, Transport and Digital.

Registration:

To attend the event in person, please register here.

To attend the event virtually, please register here.